Achieving mobile-enabled digital inclusion in Bangladesh

The internet and digital technology have played a key role in helping to drive economic growth and societal development in Bangladesh. Mobile, as the primary means of internet access and the principal form of digital technology use in the country, has been at the forefront of this digital transformation. Digital technologies, and mobile in particular, will be crucial to implementing the 2041 Perspective Plan, achieving the SDGs and recovering economically in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. Enhancing digital inclusion by increasing the coverage and usage of the mobile internet will be essential to maximising the impact of digital technologies on the government’s development aspirations.

Despite the investments of the telecoms sector to expand 4G mobile broadband coverage, which now reaches 95% of the population, 4G is yet to emerge as the dominant form of mobile technology in Bangladesh. This suggests a lag between 4G coverage rollout and usage of 4G services. This lag is largely explained by issues related to the affordability of devices, low levels of knowledge and digital skills, a perceived lack of relevance, and safety and security concerns. The report argues that concerted government and regulator action is needed to implement policies and regulations that support increased mobile internet adoption and infrastructure deployment.